Teen Spirit

About the Book

Francesca Lia Block, critically acclaimed author of Weetzie Bat, brings this eerie and redemptive ghost story to life with her signature, poetic prose. It's perfect for fans of supernatural stories with a touch of romance like the Beautiful Creatures series by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl.

After Julie's grandmother passes away, she is forced to move across town to the not-so-fancy end of Beverly Hills and start over at a new school. The only silver lining to the perpetual dark cloud that seems to be following her? Clark—a die-hard fan of Buffy and all things Joss Whedon, who is just as awkward and damaged as she is. Her kindred spirit.

When the two try to contact Julie's grandmother with a Ouija board, they make contact with a different spirit altogether. The real kind. And this ghost will do whatever it takes to come back to the world of the living.

Francesca Lia Block's latest young adult novel is a haunting work about family, loss, love, and redemption.

Book Description

I will stay connected to you when I go..

Julie's life has never been perfect. But she's always been able to deal with it by seeking comfort in her grandmother Miriam's sage advice. Now that Miriam is gone, Julie's entire world is beginning to unravel—her mother loses her job and then their house, and Julie has to start over at a new school. She's desperate to discover a way to keep it all together. Desperate for a way to stay connected to her grandmother.

Then Julie meets Clark. He's clever, awkward, and slightly damaged—just the sort of friend Julie needs right now. One night, the two use a Ouija board that Julie finds in her new house, believing it's a chance to reach out to her grandmother. But when they get a response, it isn't from Miriam. And Julie discovers that while she has been eager to regain her past, Clark is haunted by his. . . .

Critically acclaimed author Francesca Lia Block brings this story about family, loss, and redemption to life with her signature poetic prose.

Educator and Librarian Resources

Critical Praise

PRAISE FOR TEEN SPIRIT:“Poetry and pop culture, life and deaththese are just two of the polarities that pulse through Block’s elegantly crafted novel. While the spooky goings-on, eerie romance, and magical-hipster Los Angeles setting have broad appeal, the story has even richer treasures in store for readers who dig deeper.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“Told in Block’s signature, flowing prose, Teen Spirit is a layered story that’s more about grief than it is about ghosts. A beautiful story from a legendary young adult author.” —School Library Journal

“Block’s sensual language and strong evocation of place embroider this tale of unresolved grief with an overlay of subtle and delicate creepiness.” —Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

PRAISE FOR PINK SMOG:“Pink Smog sparkles and obscures; it’s a glorious mirage, like the city it pays homage to.” —Maggie Stiefvater, #1 New York Times bestselling author, for the New York Times Book Review

“I love the lush, melancholy world of this novel, and its heroine, with her century of secrets.” —Claudia Gray, New York Times bestselling author of Evernight

“A startlingly original work that drives a stake deep into the heart of typical vampire stories.” —School Library Journal

“Sizzles and satisfies.” —Publishers Weekly

“Will be gobbled like candy by teen readers.” —The Horn Book

“With her characteristic flair and seductive prose, Block makes this tangled story of betrayal and love a standout. Sensuous and heartbreaking, sure to both satisfy and challenge fans of the supernatural romance.” —Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

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